PERCEPTION OF SEXUAL ACTIVITIES DURING PREGNANCY AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style: Available
- Recommended for : Student Researchers
- NGN 3000
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the study
Sexual activity during pregnancy remains a topic of significant interest and concern among pregnant women, healthcare providers, and researchers. This concern is often rooted in cultural beliefs, misinformation, and the potential physical and psychological impacts on both the mother and the unborn child. The perception of sexual activities during pregnancy varies widely across different cultures and social contexts, influencing the behaviors and attitudes of pregnant women.
Cultural norms play a pivotal role in shaping the perception of sexual activity during pregnancy. In many African societies, including Nigeria, traditional beliefs often discourage sexual activities during pregnancy due to fears of harming the unborn child or causing complications during delivery (Ogunleye, 2018). These cultural beliefs are deeply embedded and can significantly influence the sexual behavior of pregnant women.
Medical research indicates that, in most cases, sexual activity during pregnancy is safe for both the mother and the fetus. According to a study by Bartellas et al. (2016), engaging in sexual activity can have positive effects on a pregnant woman's emotional well-being and relationship satisfaction. However, certain medical conditions, such as placenta previa or preterm labor, may necessitate restrictions on sexual activities (Hosseini, Moini, & Eslami, 2018). Therefore, it is crucial for healthcare providers to offer personalized advice based on each woman's medical history and current health status.
The psychological and emotional aspects of sexual activity during pregnancy are also important to consider. Anxiety and fear regarding the potential impact of sexual activity on pregnancy can lead to decreased sexual desire and activity among pregnant women (Maurice et al., 2017). Education and counseling provided during antenatal visits can help alleviate these fears and promote a healthy sexual life during pregnancy.
This study focuses on the perception of sexual activities during pregnancy among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at Grimard Catholic Hospital in Anyigba, Kogi State. This setting provides a unique opportunity to explore the attitudes and behaviors of a specific population within a Nigerian context. Previous studies have shown that antenatal care settings are crucial for disseminating accurate information and addressing misconceptions about sexual health during pregnancy (Adeyemo, 2015).
Understanding the perception of sexual activities during pregnancy among this population is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in identifying the prevailing misconceptions and cultural beliefs that may affect sexual behavior. Secondly, it provides insights into the informational needs of pregnant women regarding sexual health. Lastly, the findings can inform the development of targeted educational interventions aimed at promoting safe and healthy sexual practices during pregnancy.
The perception of sexual activities during pregnancy is influenced by a complex interplay of cultural, social, and medical factors. Addressing these perceptions through education and counseling is vital for promoting the well-being of pregnant women. This study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by providing a detailed examination of these perceptions among pregnant women in Grimard Catholic Hospital, Anyigba, Kogi State.
1.2 Statement of the problem
Sexual activities during pregnancy remain a subject shrouded in cultural taboos, myths, and misconceptions, significantly influencing the behavior and attitudes of pregnant women (Glover & Pugh, 2017). In many African societies, including Nigeria, these perceptions are shaped by traditional beliefs and a lack of adequate sexual education (Mogobe et al., 2016). Understanding the perception of sexual activities during pregnancy is crucial for promoting maternal health and well-being, as sexual activity has been linked to both positive and negative outcomes in pregnancy (Yusuf et al., 2017).
Despite the global recognition of the importance of sexual health during pregnancy, there is a paucity of research focusing specifically on the perception of sexual activities among pregnant women in Nigeria (Adinma & Adinma, 2016). This gap in the literature is particularly evident in rural settings like Anyigba, Kogi State, where access to antenatal education and services may be limited. The Grimard Catholic Hospital, being a significant healthcare provider in this region, offers a unique opportunity to explore these perceptions and their implications on maternal health practices and outcomes.
Research indicates that pregnant women often receive mixed messages about the safety and benefits of sexual activities during pregnancy, leading to confusion and anxiety (Okojie et al., 2019). These mixed perceptions can result in either the avoidance of sexual activities due to fear of harming the baby or engaging in risky sexual behaviors due to a lack of proper guidance (Ezeanochie & Olagbuji, 2016). Consequently, this research aims to investigate the perceptions of sexual activities during pregnancy among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Grimard Catholic Hospital, Anyigba, Kogi State.
1.3 Objective of the study
- To explore the knowledge levels of pregnant women regarding sexual activities during pregnancy.
- To identify the perceptions of pregnant women regarding sexual activities during pregnancy.
- To identify the perceived barriers that prevent pregnant women from engaging in sexual activities during pregnancy.
1.4 Research Questions
- What are the levels of knowledge among pregnant women attending Antenatal in Grimard Catholic Hospital regarding sexual activities during pregnancy?
- What is the perception of pregnant women towards sexual activities during pregnancy?
- What are the perceived barriers that prevent pregnant women from engaging in sexual activities during pregnancy?
1.5 Research hypotheses
Null Hypothesis (H0): The perception of sexual activities during pregnancy among pregnant women attending Antenatal in Grimard catholic Hospital Anyigba Kogi State is negative.
Alternative Hypothesis (H1): The perception of sexual activities during pregnancy among pregnant women attending Antenatal in Grimard catholic Hospital Anyigba Kogi State is positive.
1.6 Significance of the study
Health Education and Awareness:
The study will provide valuable insights into the perceptions of sexual activities during pregnancy among pregnant women. These insights can be used to develop targeted health education programs aimed at dispelling myths and providing accurate information about sexual health during pregnancy, thereby promoting better health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Improvement of Antenatal Care Services:
Understanding the perceptions and concerns of pregnant women regarding sexual activities can help healthcare providers at Grimard Catholic Hospital and other antenatal clinics to tailor their services to address these issues more effectively. This can lead to improved communication between healthcare providers and patients, enhancing the overall quality of antenatal care.
Contribution to Academic Research:
The study will add to the existing body of knowledge on sexual health during pregnancy, particularly in the context of Nigerian women. This can serve as a reference for future research and contribute to the development of more comprehensive studies on the topic, which can further inform policy and practice in maternal health.
Policy Formulation:
The findings of this study can inform policymakers and healthcare administrators about the importance of integrating sexual health education into antenatal care programs. This can lead to the formulation of policies that support the inclusion of sexual health discussions as a routine part of antenatal visits, ensuring that pregnant women receive holistic care.
Empowerment of Women:
By addressing the perceptions and concerns of pregnant women regarding sexual activities, the study can empower women with knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their sexual health during pregnancy. This empowerment can contribute to better mental and emotional well-being, as well as stronger relationships with their partners during the pregnancy period.
1.7 Scope of the study
This study focuses to explore the knowledge levels of pregnant women regarding sexual activities during pregnancy, identify the perceptions of pregnant women regarding sexual activities during pregnancy, and identify the perceived barriers that prevent pregnant women from engaging in sexual activities during pregnancy. Hence pregnant women attending Antenatal in Grimard catholic Hospital Anyigba Kogi State shall serve as enrolled participants for this study.
1.8 Limitation of the study
Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. The significant constraint are:
Time: The researcher encountered time constraint as the researcher had to carry out this research along side other academic activities such as attending lectures and other educational activities required of her.
Finance: The researcher incurred more financial expenses in carrying out this study such as typesetting, printing, sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process.
Availability of Materials: The researcher encountered challenges in sourcing for literature in this study. The scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse was a limitation to this study.
1.9 Definition of terms
Perception:
The way in which pregnant women understand, interpret, and form opinions about sexual activities during pregnancy. This includes their beliefs, attitudes, and feelings towards engaging in sexual activities while pregnant.
Sexual Activities:
Any actions that involve sexual intimacy between partners. In the context of this study, it refers to the various forms of sexual behavior that pregnant women may engage in during their pregnancy.
Pregnancy:
The condition of having a developing embryo or fetus within the body, typically lasting about nine months in humans, from conception to childbirth. In this study, it refers to the period during which the women attending antenatal care are expecting a baby.
Antenatal Care:
Medical and healthcare services provided to pregnant women before childbirth to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. This care typically includes regular check-ups, screenings, and education on pregnancy-related topics.
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